First launched in Japan in 2001, the Honda Fit is now produced in six factories around the world and sold in well over 100 countries. Two million units later, the second-generation Fit goes on sale today in Japan.


Intended to be a small-car benchmark in a highly competitive segment, the machine's utility, performance and packaging have all been advanced in the new model. Styling is more assertive and features a heavily-revised front end which is more sculpted and emotional. With a rounder side profile and taillights reminiscent of the last-generation Civic Si-R hatchback, Fit appears ready to tackle any job while having fun in the process.

A longer wheelbase and extended front pillar help create more interior space, and Honda says that the new Fit boasts interior room on par with a mid-sized sedan. The fuel tank is mounted in the centre--freeing up interior space and helping to facilitate crisp handling characteristics. A navigation system with 40-gigabyte hard drive is available, as is an outward-rotating driver's seat for even easier access.

Powering the base model Fit is a 1.3-litre, 100-horsepower engine mated to a CVT transmission. Though dissimilar to the North-American powerplant, the intent to save fuel while delivering respectable performance remains. An upscale "Road Sailing" (RS) model features a 1.5-litre engine and performance-oriented upgrades.

No word on a Canadian launch as of yet.




Photo Credit : Honda